Opening remarks

Good afternoon and welcome to all of you. Welcome to this meeting of NATO Defence Ministers. 
Let me start by warmly welcoming Minister Reznikov and High Representative Borrell. Welcome to both of you.

It is almost one year since Russia has launched its full-fledged invasion of Ukraine and illegal war of aggression, which has brought untold suffering to the people of Ukraine, shattered peace in Europe and affected people around the world through the food and energy crisis. 

President Putin made two big strategic mistakes. He underestimated the strength and the bravery of the people of Ukraine and its armed forces. And he underestimated the unity and resolve of NATO and partners. 

NATO Allies are providing unprecedented support to Ukraine to help uphold its right of self-defence. And from the start, we have been working very closely with the European Union, determined to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. Today we will discuss our continued support which is essential to help Ukraine prevail as an independent sovereign state and to uphold the international rules-based order. 

Before we start, let me convey on behalf of all Allies, our heartfelt condolences to all the victims of the earthquake last week. Allies are providing much needed support. We will now pause for a moment of silence in solidarity with our Ally Türkiye, so please rise. 

Thank you. 
This concludes the public part of the meeting. I thank the media for joining us at the top of the meeting, then we continue the discussions in just a moment.